Manipal Hospital, has become India's first multi speciality hospital to be ISO 9001:2000 certified by TUV Rhineland for clinical protocols, nursing care, support service (laboratory & pharmacy) and administration.

This is for the first time in India that a multi-specialty hospital has gone for such a comprehensive audit that covers even operation theatres and ICUs. Dr Ramdas Pai, chairman, Manipal group, received the certificate, from Trygve Hoppner, managing director, TUV Rhineland in the presence of R Basil, CEO, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore.

No multi-specialty tertiary care hospital in India, with rigours of ICU or complicated supra-major surgical protocols, has applied for an audit of this nature.

R Basil, CEO, Manipal Hospital, Bangalore said, "ISO certification is a reassurance to the patients that their treatment plan is as per internationally recognized and WHO accepted standard protocols. Besides Manipal Hospital remains committed to continuous improvement of all our internal process. This certification has come after a concerted effort of over 2000 doctors, nurses and support staff spanning an year and half."

"We felt that we should go for a comprehensive audit including clinical and nursing are the two form the core-activity for any hospital. Since there is no accreditation norms for hospitals in India, we believe our effort will be an eye-opener for the industry. Initiatives from the government/IRDA, which touch mass health care, must look at such comprehensive accreditation as a pre-requisite for hospitals to participate in their schemes, informed Basil.

The certification will enhance the Manipal brand and acceptability of the hospital globally. The certification is a major boost to the health tourism initiatives at Manipal Hospital. As a next step, Manipal Hospital is applying for JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations) certification that is recognized by USA government.

The Hospital made a representation to Gulf countries at Bahrain and is now looking forward to meeting European patients. In the second week of November, hospital will also participate in world's second largest exhibition on tourism going to be conducted in UK, he said.